CHARLOTTE, Mich. (WLNS) – Rooster coops have been a sizzling subject within the Metropolis of Charlotte recently.
There may be an ordinance that restricts how many individuals can have coops—solely 10 permits are at the moment allowed throughout the metropolis limits. These with permits can have a coop with as much as six chickens.
A hen, owned by Amanda Lipsey. (WLNS)
Metropolis resident Amanda Lipsey acquired the ball rolling on this again in 2012, when no chickens have been allowed in Charlotte.
“We were a farm community that didn’t allow them, which I thought that was kind of crazy,” stated Lipsey.
Her efforts led to the ten allow restrict ordinance, however Lipsey stated it’s time for a change. She desires to see no restrict on permits.
“I don’t always love when government tells you what you can and can’t do with your property,” Lipsey continued. “If you want to know where your food comes from, this is one of the ways you can control that.”
Rooster coop, owned by Amanda Lipsey. (WLNS)
There would nonetheless be an utility course of, however residents like Monique Hite say if somebody qualifies, they need to be capable of get chickens immediately moderately than having to attend for a spot to open up.
“I want some chickens!” Hite stated.
Hite stated she would for positive have utilized for a allow, however with all ten spots stuffed and a wait listing, she stated it appears like a misplaced trigger.
Metropolis Councilman Jeff Christensen has heard what persons are saying in regards to the restrict and introduced the dialog to town council.
“If we had it unlimited, I think we would have maybe 30-35 families tops,” Christensen stated.
Chickens, owned by Amanda Lipsey. (WLNS)
In distinction, Charlotte Mayor Tim Lewis stated he would really like no permits allowed on the town, saying chickens do not belong within the metropolis. He added that rising the variety of permits would require extra enforcement, which they do not at the moment have the sources for.
“Someone needs to make sure that someone doesn’t have 42 chickens in their backyard. Do we hire another person to do just that?” Lewis stated.
The Mayor nervous that extra permits would convey extra issues.
“I am extraordinarily concerned about neighbors and when chickens are next door, and if I have a dog or a child,” stated Lewis.
Town council has been discussing this subject and could have the ultimate say on the result, which Lipsey hopes occurs quickly.
“I don’t feel like this is a big city issue, we have such bigger issues.” Lipsey continued, “I feel like we are wasting time and not being efficient.”
Discussions on doable allow growth will proceed on Monday on the metropolis council assembly. A choice could possibly be made then, or council members may push it down the road for one more assembly.
